Phytochemical Screening and Antibacterial Potential of the Trunk Bark of Ochthocosmus Africanus

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An estimated 57 million deaths are recorded worldwide every year out of which infectious diseases are responsible for 17 million; one-third of the overall mortality rate. To face this crucial issue, the search for new anti-infective agents that could be used by needy populations appeared primordial. The present study focused on Ochthocosmus africanus (Ixonanthaceae) known to be traditionally used in disease caretaking. The phytochemical screening of the hydroalcoholic extract from the plant trunk bark was followed by the determination of its antibacterial potential by macro-dilution in a liquid medium. The minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC, respectively) were assessed on six Gram-negative rods (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter aerogenes, Moraxella spp., Escherichia coli, Serratia odorifera, and Shigella sonnei) and three Gram-positive rods (Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Clostridium spp., and Bacillus spp.). The Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of secondary metabolites like flavonoids, anthocyanins, tannins, saponosides, triterpenes, cardiotonic heterosides, and reducing sugars. The antibacterial tests further revealed inhibitory and bactericidal features of the extract with MIC values ranging from 25 through 100 mg/mL; while the MBCs were recorded between 50 and 200 mg/mL. Bactericidal activity was observed on Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Shigella sonnei, Clostridium spp, and Lactobacillus bulgaricus (CMB/CMI=2) and bacteriostatic activity on the others. These findings could justify, at least partially, the use of this plant in infectious; but additional efforts on toxicity are needed for safer healthcare.